Testimonials
“If your passion revolves around great trout streams, gorgeous scenery and excellent meals coupled with one on one instructional guiding then look no further. Dave and George at Wet Fly Waterguides provided us with all that and more! It was a premiere fly fishing experience and so affordable that we hope to make it an annual event. I was simply looking for someone to help me learn more about fishing the centuries old wet fly and ended up participating in my favorite fly fishing trip to date! I highly recommend Wet fly Waterguides; you couldn't ask for more!"
Bob Webb
Bedford, PA
"I want to thank you guys for giving me a great trip. I would like to tell anyone that is thinking about trying wet fly fishing to not think twice about it! As an advid "nympher", I did not think that there was a better way to take a trout. Well, I was very surprised to find that wets could be so much fun, and fishing with George and Dave are two of the best guys to learn from. Fishing with them was like fishing with a couple of buddies that I have been fishing with for years. They make learning the art of "wet's" fun and easy. They also are very skilled at undoing the knots I created in my leader! I sure tested them out in that! So, if you are looking to add one more trick to your tactics for taking trout, give wet fly fishing a shot. Between the laughs and knot picking, you will catch fish, alot of them. Give Wet Fly Waterguides a day of your time and you too will be a wet fly fisherman."
Todd Woznick
Lehighton, Pa
“When I went with Wet Fly Waterguides, it was my first experience at fly fishing and I was a little nervous. I had seen people fly fishing on TV before, and it looked pretty complicated. When we got to the stream, they showed me how to set my rod up, and after some practice casts, I got the hang of it. After a few casts on my own, the fish started biting. I was really excited when I caught my first brown trout. I have always loved fishing, but fly fishing has really got me hooked. I had a great time.”
Zack Rummel Age 14
Johnstown, PA
"Guys. Thanks for the flies. I used them on a guided trip with 2 clients. There was sporadic hatch activity throughout the day and my plan was to have one client fish the usual suspects (nymphs etc) but I wanted to experiment with your flies with my other client. After catching 10 fish we stopped experimenting and just fished wet flies the rest of the day. At one point in the afternoon we were hooking up every cast. Well they had a great time. I found it was much easier for them to do a down stream swing with a wet fly than to try to get them to do a drag free drift with a nymph which we usually do. They could also feel and see the strikes so it wasn’t hard for them to hook up. I expected them to hook up a time or two with the wet flys but they FAR exceeded my expectations in terms of number of fish caught. The best patterns were the CDC Picket and Adams. Thanks so much for continuing to promote such a great and classic aspect of our sport, one that is so enjoyable and underrated."
Gordon English
The Albemarle Angler
Charlottesville, VA
I have been a lifelong trout fisherman in West-Central Pennsylvania and for the past 15-20 years a fly fisherman. The knowledge and enjoyment that I have gained by fishing with George Lashinsky and Dave Allbaugh has been immeasurable. My experiences with them have certainly improved my quality of fishing. I thought I knew the streams of this region, but they know them like the backs of their trout stained hands. They could probably fish Kettle and Spring Creek blindfolded. They know every hot spot. George and Dave's fly fishing abilities rank up with the best. Using their wet flies and techniques improved my catch rate. I whole-heartedly recommend their guide services. Their stories and anecdotes will keep you amused. Their knowledge and experience will catch you more fish and improve your fishing abilities.
Walt Ronan, P.T.
Owner of Vantage Physical Therapy
Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Well after meeting Dave and George at some of the flyfishing shows, we got a chance to fish together up on Pine Creek and Kettle Creek. After seeing their flies at the shows and seeing the time they have taken to adapt and create their own patterns to meet the needs of the various streams they fish, I knew these guys were the real deal. Before I went up to fish with Dave, I took the time to look at the video they had done and tied up a few of their patterns. Probably the best thing the video on tying did for me was remind me that I need to keep an open mind about fly creation and be creative. Anyhow I stopped at Spring Creek and gave the wet sulphur a try, the action was not stop in a hour I had a taken a dozen Spring Creek browns. I was pumped and headed to Kettle Creek to meet Dave at his camp. We got up early the next day and fished Pine Creek and had an absolute blast. These guys know where the fish are, the canoes got a little intense so we moved back over to Kettle. Wow it was the same thing one fish after the other. Fishing wets with these guys was great, but more importantly was the hospitality Dave showed me. Dave I can’t thank you enough you treated me like we were friends forever. Since then we have got together and fished a couple of the streams in Central PA that I like to fish and we have had a blast. Try wet fly fishing Dave and George style and it will add another dimension to your game.
Todd Spacht
Guide and Owner of Spacht’s Custom Flies
Mechanicsburg. PA
If you are looking for a great day of fishing or to add another method to your fly fishing experience, then you cannot do better than to spend a day with Wet Fly WaterGuides. My son-in-law and I spent a day with Dave fishing Bald Eagle Creek, Spring Creek and the Little Juniata. I must say that Dave knows every inch of these streams and his wet flys do catch fish. We had a very memorable day and can't wait to do it again! Dave, thanks again for a great day of fishing.
Dick Farabaugh Indiana, PA
After a friend gave me a 30 minute introduction to fly fishing last year, I began looking for a fly fishing class. I stumbled on to the Wet Fly Waterguides through Mike, one of my customers. Mike suggested Dave and George so I gave them a call. Our first outing had to be postponed due to high water, but it was worth the wait. Being a novice, Dave took the time needed with my buddy and I to teach us casting techniques and other aspects of the sport. Dave took us to some wonderful streams and we were catching fish in no time. Dave is truly an articulate, patient, organized, and knowledgeable teacher and fisherman. My only regret is that I didn't meet him 10 years ago. If you are considering a trip or are needing instruction as we were, then the Wet fly Waterguides are the guys to go to. I am already looking at my calander for a 3 day trip next spring.
Rodney Schaffer
Director of Technical Services
Con Yeager Spice Company
Zelienople, PA 16063
I had a great time on my 3 day trip. I really appreciated the opportunity to fish a small mountain stream for wild brook trout and browns, two large freestone streams for some beautiful rainbows, and a spring creek for some feisty browns, all on the same trip. Best of all we caught fish on every stream we fished, even though the weather didn’t fully cooperate. I am truly a believer in the wet fly technique that you all advocate, it really produces. I can’t wait to try it on some Virginia streams. In addition your 3 days of individual instruction/tutoring has been invaluable in improving my mediocre casting and my ability to “read” the water on larger streams. An additional bonus, and one of particular interest to me, were the rides through the mountain “back roads” to and from the streams. We saw game on every trip and seeing the black bear up close and personal was a real treat. I have only one complaint. It just wasn’t possible for me to eat all of the great food you provided for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Thanks again for a wonderful time and I look forward to booking another trip as soon as my “work” allows.
George S. Bullen
7616 Burford Drive
McLean VA 22102
On May 16, 2008, I experienced Wet Fly Fishing for the first time with Dave Allbaugh from Wet Fly Fishing Guides. I must admit it was very much different then what I was used to, but I had a very nice time catching some nice Brown Trout. I was also impressed with the amount of time we spent on the water fishing. Dave went the extra mile to get me hooked up, so to speak. Dave was very patient with me because I was slow to pick up this technique, I want to thank you Dave once again and hope to see you on the stream soon.
Thank you
Chad Hollenbaugh
Con Yeager Spice, Co
I am hooked. Once you start wet fly fishing you won’t want to fish any other way. I have been on 2-three day trips with George and Dave and it has been the 6 best days of fishing in my life. And the food isn’t bad either actually its pretty darn good. As far as the fishing goes, they put you on fish and you catch fish. If I can catch fish with them anyone can. It doesn’t matter how much you know about fly-fishing, they will teach you a few things and you will have the time of your life. I would highly recommend you book a trip with Wet Fly Waterguides today or you will be sorry you didn’t do it sooner. We have made it a tradition to go with them every year.
Christopher Webb
Bedford, Pa
I am writing to express my appeciation for the all day lesson and fishing experience I had last week with Dave. I was very impressed by the technique and frequency of "takes" we had using the wet fly method. We caught alot of trout. I look forward to implementing this method on my own with the help of your DVD on fly tying.
Thanks again,
Dr. Bruce Duke
Johnstown, PA.
Thanks for another great trip! This third trip was made even more special since I was able to bring my 78 year old dad. He had quite a day of fishing and is still talking about the quality of the guiding, the beautiful area and fishing opportunities. You run a class operation and I look forward to coming back next year.
Best regards,
Jeff & Max Ankney
Somerset, PA
George, I wanted to say thank you for the awesome time you showed my friend Dave and I on Sunday. What a beautiful stream you have there in Spring Creek. The fly project there is something that should be revered and protected by cold water enthusiasts and all who enjoy the splendor of nature.
I must say that I am a “Dry Fly” guy and was more than a bit apprehensive about being shown something new. After having spent some time before hand watching your video series and a few brief instructions, I have a new found appreciation for your lost art. I can see that this technique is very productive. You had Dave and I on fish while the others around watched. The only fish I saw landed were taken by our group utilizing your techniques. This is how our sport began so long ago, the wet fly.
Lastly, the M-Series 5 weight performed flawlessly in the high winds and tight cover. The operator(me) , however left a bit to be desired. I am looking forward to the day that I can redeem myself on Spring Creek with the Wet Fly WaterGuides.
Best regards,
Chris Reister
Mystic Rods
I have been fly fishing for almost 25 years and I primarily used dry flies. I have landed some nice fish but was looking for something different. I knew Dave and decided to ask him what to use and he suggested trying some wet flies. I have to say at first I was wondering just how well the flies would work and let me be the first to say that the flies were awesome! I actually landed my biggest brownie ever with these flies! I want to say that the quality of the flies and the knowledge that Dave has is fantastic! If you want to try something different I suggest speaking with Dave and you to will be hooked on wet flies!!
Brian Dukery
Salix, PA
I spent a day wet fly fishing and had a great time. This was the first time I used wet flies and they were very productive. I was impressed with the number of trout in the streams. I also learned a lot about fly fishing. This was best trout fishing I have experienced.
Thank you
Derek Maziarz
Butler, PA
After almost 50 years of fly fishing, which consisted mainly of the dry flies, nymphs and Steamers, I will now embrace this new system, which will definitely make you a fish catching machine. If you wish to add a new wrinkle to your fly fishing arsenal, then book a trip with these two fine individuals. They go out of their way to make your trip a wonderful experience. I am willing to bet , no matter what level of fly fisher you are, that you will not only increase your trout catching abilities, but also learn a great deal about nature and entomology as well. The areas that you will visit and the scenery you will see, is as beautiful as anywhere in this great country. If you wish to speak to me personally as to my experience with the Wet Fly Water Guides, contact either Dave or George and they have my permission to give you my number. That is how much I think of them and their product.
Dennis DiBonaventura
This past May I had the opportunity to film and fish with Wet Fly Water Guides in north central PA. I expressed my wish to Dave and George to tackle some Wild Trout and my wish was their obsession. Dave and George took me to some wonderful wild trout waters that were a true test of patience and skill. Although the trout were quick and non forgiving, we managed dozens of fish in our two day trip. Dave and George’s expertise in fly selection and strategic casting locations led me to two amazing days of native Brooks and Browns. The weekend was highlighted with a 16” Native Brown and a 10” Brookie that dazzled all of us. My next trip we will take the Wet Fly route!
Joe Rossi
Joe’s Wildside Adventures
www.joeswildsideadventures.com
I had the good fortune this May to spend a truly productive "learning day" on the Little Juniata with Dave. Although conditions were difficult at best, with very few rising or actively feeding fish, Dave's careful and patient instruction in his style of wet fly fishing brought more than a few trout to hand, most memorably the beautifully marked brown in the photo. Dave and I covered a good bit of water on the river, moving to spots Dave felt might have better opportunities. In this regard Dave is unlike many guides who are content to put their clients in one location and hoping for the best. Dave likes to keep moving and cover as much productive water as possible. I truly thank Dave for showing me stretches of the "J" that I was unaware of and teaching me his style of rigging the wet fly cast and presenting it effectively in many different water types. I have been fly fishing for most of my years now and Dave has graciously added a new dimension to my on stream experience. Whether you are a beginner or a veteran, Dave has tactics and techniques to teach you, and you will experience a memorable day on the water.
John Carson
First thank you guys for a great time. Just a lot of fun and good fishing was had by the four of us from Delco/Manning TU. The cabin was on the banks of Kettle Creek. Beautiful water, lots od drakes and BWOs and 2 great teachersof the wet fly system that help round out my fly fishing skills. WOW!!! Now there is no reason for not catching fish.
Thanks again
Brian Mac Elroy
Thanks, Dave, for your hospitality and for teaching me a few things on the water. I'd like to fish with you again -- no work next time, just fishing.
On Saturday I was on Cool Springs Creek dropping dry flies over a couple of very active trout that were picking caddis off the surface. My fly may have been too big -- hits all around but I couldn't get them to take mine. Then I thought of your emerger techniques. I pulled the fly under the surface, let it drift and saw a couple of passes, then -- BAM! -- had one on and lost it. A few minutes later I hooked and landed the other. For whatever reason, they were leary of my fly on the surface, but were turned on when I fished it like a wet fly. Thanks for the good advice -- hope to see you soon.
Best wishes,
John Hayes
Outdoors Editor Pittsburgh Post Gazette
I am a member of Main Line Flytyers in Pa. You spoke in front of our group a couple of weeks ago, and I bought several of your sink tips and leaders and a video. I just wanted to let you know that I used your system the other day for the first time on a "Limestone" with wild browns that's near my home. I'm not sure if it was one of those days, or your system. But I had the best day of fishing on that stream in 15 years. 10 fish landed in 2 1/2 hours. Needless to say, I'm sold on your system. And will be buying more of your leaders, flies, and videos.
Thanks
Bill Dieckhaus
I would like to thank Dave for an incredible wet-fly experience. On April 29th, I had the privilege to spend the day learning the lost art of fly fishing with wets. For 15+ years I have primarily resorted to the use of nymphs in just about all situations. However, after spending the day fishing only wet flys, I was amazed by the number of “grabs” we had. Dave’s knowledge of this style of fishing and his ability to match the hatch was remarkable. It is my opinion that no matter your skill level or preferred method of fishing, you can learn a lot from Dave and his experiences by spending a day with him.
Brian Skoff
Valley Forge,Pa
"If you're looking for beautiful fishing water in gorgeous countryside, patient, detailed instruction on an exciting wet fly fishing technique by its creator, and lots of fish-on action, book a trip with Wet Fly WaterGuides! Dave Allbaugh will deliver on all counts! Dave knows the productive riffles and holes in so many streams in North Central PA, that he could take me to four or five every day, showing me his techniques, coaching while I learned them, and getting well versed on the use of his specialty tackle. I saw and fished so many different kinds of water that I feel like I just completed a post-grad course in Fly Fishing! Dave's wet fly fishing technique will be a mainstay for the rest of my life! He's passionate about it and eager to share it with his clients. This was my first experience with a cutting edge innovator in the sport of fishing, and I am thoroughly impressed. I'll definitely be back. (And did I mention Dave's focus on client satisfaction? Not just with respect to fishing, but the other finer things in life as well - like good food!) Thanks, Dave, for a great experience!"
Curt Nelson
Colonel (Ret'd) USAF
Xenia, OH
"Wet fly fishing is an enjoyable and effective method of trout fishing. Dave Allbaugh epitomizes the Wet Fly Waterguides motto of "specializing in the classic art of wet fly fishing" and adds innovative lines, leaders, flies and tactics."
Bill May
Outdoor Writer
Carroll County Times
Ellicott City, MD
Dave provided a most enjoyable fishing experience. I had not done any fly fishing for quite awhile and was a little rusty with my casting. Dave provided suggestions on technique and showed great patience with my snags. We fished some beautiful streams and caught some nice native browns. During the entire trip Dave gave me unlimited personal attention, making the fishing very rewarding. We covered quite a bit of water, with Dave not hesitating to change flies to keep the action going steadily. I must say that you get your money's worth out of Dave in that he will stay on the stream as long as you want to keep fishing.
His wet fly technique represents a very effective way of fly fishing. I am now a disciple of his methods. They work! What is really nice, though, is to have Dave on the stream with you as you use the method. I don't think that just reading about his techniques gives you the best feel for this kind of fishing. Having him there instructing you on the presentation made a big difference for me. I don't know what Dave could have done to make the trip more enjoyable!
George Walz
Indiana,Pa
If you want a good day fishing on Spring Creek, spend it with Dave. He is congenial, knowledgeable and patient. I experienced one of those on a very hot day in early July. There was wows over big fish and a lot of laughs over missed ones. And I had quite a few of both. I have been tying and fishing wet and soft hackle flies for some time. I engaged Dave to learn his secrets which he gave up without a struggle. If you are into counting fish do not go with Dave. He is into fishing with catching being a bonus. He put me on the fish albeit some were less than mentionable with some way above average. When you go out with Dave make sure he shows you some of the more scenic parts of the Creek. Such as, a lovely stretch nestled gently between a rail yard and the sewage treatment plant. If you do not look to the right or left it is beautiful and holds some great fish. I am looking forward to returning to the area and fishing other local rivers with Dave.
Byron Rall
Norwalk, CT.
Dave,
Thanks again for a great trip to Spring Creek. I got out on the water and started catching fish right away! Caught 6 (and missed as many more!) in the first two hours, all about the same average size on that stretch of water in the alley we didn't get to the night before. Your dark hares ear was a killer, got 5 of them on that one fly, one on the dropper. Had a ball! Spring Creek will be an annual trip for me.
Take care.
Curt Nelson
Dave Allbaugh of Wet Fly Waterguides was my personal wet fly instructor and fishing guide for three days in early May 2011. He provided lodging and transportation, cooked all meals for me, took me to the best parts of the best streams, taught me how to wet fly fish, and even instructed me where specifically to drop my line. I caught more fish than I have ever caught with dry flies, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I look forward to the next trip with Dave. Having him as a one-on-one guide for three days was certainly worth the fee. I learned a great deal and had a wonderful time.
Bud Cherefko
Virginia
Dave,
Just wanted to write a quick note thanking you for your time on the river. My family and I have been trying to crack the code on Northeast fly fishing for some time, and with your help we've
definitely accomplished that. I have never had as much action on that line as we did that day. Your style and approach is fantastic --- I'll never fish a different way again. Thanks again.
All the best,
Chad Nelson
Dave,
You took two guys who never fished with your technique of wet fly
fishing, placed us into fish holding water, enthusiastically shared
your wet fly techniques and we caught fish. Two days of wet fly
fishing and a few hours of dry fly fishing with an accommodating
guide, bringing mostly rainbows, a few brookies, and a brown to the
net....what more can one ask for. Thanks for a very enjoyable
experience and we will be back.
Dick Milaszewski
Dave,
Spent the better part of three days with Dave Allbaugh of Wet Fly
Waterguides and had a lot of laughes and learned a lot about wet fly
fishing, a little a frustrating at times, but over overall a very
enjoyable trip with some nice fish caught.
Larry Downey
Just wanted to let you guys know about my first session using your
wetfly system. Went to Penns late afternoon, caught 9 trout, brook,
brown and rainbow (one big) and a smallie. Quit at 7 PM when the
welded loop on the end of my line broke or would have caught more.
Using an Orvis power taper which is a half size larger and it threw my
wets well. Can throw more but found I'm most comfortable for now with
30-40', don't have to mend as much. I do intend to buy an intermediate
line soon.
The picket pin ruled supreme, 7 of the 9 with one on a leadwing on
one on your darker "secret fly". The slaters were hatching and maybe
that's what they took the picket for since they liked it jigged.
Your system is working for me, I really had a ball and will be doing
a lot more of it. Might even leave the dry flies home next time!
Thanks again for teaching me.
Take care,
Tom Strausbaugh
My wife and I had a great day with Dave and learned a lot with the
extra bonus of catching plenty of native brown trout. My wife
especially appreciated Dave's patience and he had her casting and
catching fish in a very short period of time. We would recommend his
guided trip and fishing method to anyone.
Bruce and Patty Colbert
If you want to try something new, consider wetfly fishing. A guided
trip with Dave will open horizons to techniques to give confidence to
use this lost art. The full day I had was packed. Dave dedicated his
time entirely to teaching, correcting technique errors and providing
as full assistance as any guide I've been with. You'll learn about the
flies, the trout's selectivity to them, the unique rigging, the
fishing technique, (and what not to do!!!). Disregard the prevailing
information on wets- they are wrong in fishing these flies . The
streams were great & the fish challengly catchable, (the "double" I
had was a hoot & I hooked into 2 of my best trout in years). I now
have something "different" to show the trout on my home water.
But---how I miss Pennsylvania.
Jon Forman,
Maryland
Dave,
Just wanted to thank you and Todd for a great time at the seminar on
June 11th.It was great fun and very informative. I finally had a
chance to make out onto the Gunpowder, where I normally fish, and your
techniques worked great. I brought 12 fish to hand and either lost or
missed the hook set on the same amount. One of the catches was a
double, which I can say has never happened nymphing. I also was able
to hook a couple of fish in a section that I have never had success
before.
Thanks again for everything.
David Bayne
Dave,
I justed wanted to again thank you for a very informative and
productive guided trip that you provided for my wife Nancy and me.
Not knowing the streams of State College area, it was quite hard
knowing where to go to fish. Your expertise took that worry out of
our trip. After giving instruction about the proper techniques to use
to fish with wet flies, you carefully watched as I began working the
shorelines in the Little Juniata. Later in the day when you
instructed my wife, you took your time and taught her the proper
techniques as well.
Thanks again for a most enjoyable experience,
Dan & Nancy Wanser
Middletown, NY
Are you frustrated with your current level of fly fishing? Maybe you
might just be looking for a new old dimension of fly fishing
techniques. If this is so, please contact Dave Allbaugh at Wet Fly
Waterguides for proper on the stream instruction. You will not be
disappointed! Dave just wanted to thank you again for your help and
patience last week on Spring Cr and the Little J. You are the best at
what you do.
Ray Kucera
Johnstown, PA
